A couple of weeks ago, I found myself planning for our upcoming block schedule. Due to state testing, our entire bell schedule was modified to accommodate 2 hour and 5 minute periods so that we could administer the math and English PARCC test to our students. Normally, we have 55 minute periods - it would be a big adjustment for both teachers and students. Knowing this, I wanted to make sure I had activities planned that got students out of their seats and allowed a maximum amount of work time where students could practice their skills. Planning these kinds of activities, however, can take a great deal of work.

So, I did what any tech-nerd would do - I started Googling everything to see what I could find already made. Through this, I rediscovered the site TeachersPayTeachers. I found a Polynomial Long Division Scavenger Hunt along with a Quadratic Applications Gallery Walk. I also found a scavenger hunt on solving quadratics to use the week before we went into a block schedule. All in all, I spent a total of $4.50 - about as much as a latte. Instead of paying for a trip to a local coffee shop to make my own materials, I could simply download the materials and spend more time at home with my family. If you've never been to the site before, I strongly recommend you check it out and see what time you can save. The site provides a ton of great resources and you can feel good about supporting another teacher.

What sites do you recommend for finding teaching materials? What are other ways you've found to save time as a teacher? Be sure to leave your ideas on the comments below!